Lakers power forward Jarred Vanderbilt was acquired by the purple and gold in a three-team trade at the 2023 trade deadline. Vanderbilt since has played an important role and was a vital piece to the success that brought them to the Western Conference Finals that year. Last season, the forward only appeared in 29 games last season due to heel and foot injuries. There have been minor updates to his injuries, and he seems to be progressing in the right direction. However, Vanderbilt will be sidelined for the start of the 2024-25 NBA regular season.
Jarred Vanderbilt Progressing Toward a Return
JJ Redick on Vanderbilt
Ahead of their preseason games, JJ Redick was asked about Vanderbilt’s injury and current status. Per Dave McMenamin of ESPN, head coach JJ Redick said that Vanderbilt’s been progressing in his rehab but will unfortunately miss the beginning of the 2024-25 season. It’s not quite the news Lakers faithful were hoping for, as they want to see their defensive expertise get back on the floor. The good news is that his rehabbing is progressing, and we should expect to see Vanderbilt soon.
Jarred Vanderbilt continues to progress towards a return, according to JJ Redick, however he will continue to rehab for at least the next two weeks, which will cause him to miss the start of the regular season on Oct. 22.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 18, 2024
With Vanderbilt and especially Christian Wood out for the early season, expect Redick and the coaching staff to play smaller lineups. Until Vanderbilt and Wood are ready to return to the floor, Redick will need to find ways to put together lineups that can be prominent defensively.
Vanderbilt’s Impact
Vanderbilt is going to be a big piece for this team moving forward. His defensive energy, offensive rebounding, and versatility allowed him to be the role player he is for LA. It’s something the Lakers could’ve used this past post-season and are looking forward to getting back for this year. Vanderbilt isn’t known for his offense, but he’s proven to be a high-level offensive rebounder. In six seasons, he boasts career averages of 2.0 offensive rebounds per game and 3.6 per 36 minutes.
His defensive versatility is another attribute the Lakers look forward to having back. Vanderbilt uses his length and athleticism to disrupt perimeter shooting, all while being able to guard bigger players. Vanderbilt’s energy is what won the purple and gold many games throughout the 2023 run they had. His astounding attributes can change the energy of an entire game. Vanderbilt finds ways to make an impact without scoring, which makes him a pivotal player.
The Last Word
During Lakers’ media availability a few weeks back, Vanderbilt gave an update on his progress in a report by The Athletic’s Jovan Buha.
Jarred Vanderbilt on his progress after having surgery on both feet: “I feel great. The process has been going great. … Everything has been on a great pace and great scheduling. Everything feels good.”
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) September 30, 2024
It’s good news to hear that Vanderbilt hasn’t suffered any setbacks and should be expected back sometime in November-December. However, it’s disappointing that he won’t be back on the floor for opening night against the Minnesota Timberwolves. When Vanderbilt is to be back, Laker nation will be ready. The Lakers look forward to getting back the astounding defense and energy that Vanderbilt brings to every game.
